The First Year Experience at Phoenix College is designed to help new college students successfully transition into higher education by developing the academic, personal, and professional skills needed for long-term success. The textbook introduces students to campus resources, motivation, goal setting, educational and career planning, financial literacy, critical thinking, and effective learning strategies. By combining practical guidance with reflective activities, the book encourages students to become engaged, confident, and self-directed learners while preparing them to navigate the challenges and opportunities of college life.
Throughout the book, students build essential college success skills including study techniques, reading strategies, note-taking, memory improvement, test preparation, time management, and interpersonal communication. Each section emphasizes personal growth, academic achievement, and career readiness by helping students establish meaningful goals, strengthen decision-making abilities, and develop effective communication skills. By integrating academic success strategies with personal and professional development, the book provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success both in college and beyond.
SECTION 1 Campus Information and Resources 1
Chapter 1 Steps to College Success 3
SECTION 2 Motivation and Goal Setting 29
Chapter 2 Mindset and Motivation 31
Chapter 3 Values and Goal Setting 51
SECTION 3 Education and Career Planning 61
Chapter 4 Education Planning 63
Chapter 5 Career Planning 79
Chapter 6 Financial Literacy 107
SECTION 4 Thinking and Learning 113
Chapter 7 Critical Thinking 115
Chapter 8 Learning 133
SECTION 5 Study Skills 145
Chapter 9 Study Skills 147
Chapter 10 Reading 155
Chapter 11 Note Taking 161
Chapter 12 Memory 173 Chapter 13 Test Taking 189
Chapter 14 Time Management 215
SECTION 6 Communication 229
Chapter 15 Interpersonal Communication 231
PHOENIX COLLEGE COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
Phoenix College was established in 1920, and is the flagship of the Maricopa County Community College
District. Phoenix College offers over 150 degree and certificate programs, and serves 17,000 students
each year, preparing them for university transfer, career training and advancement, or lifelong learning.
The student body represents over 100 different countries, and speaks over 50 different languages.
Phoenix College provides active and engaging campus experiences that include opportunities for leader
ship and personal growth both inside and outside of the classroom. Phoenix College has many options to assist
you in reaching your academic goals.